Biopsy device with applied imaging

ABSTRACT

A biopsy device includes a body, a needle, a tissue sample holder and a sensor. The needle extends from the body. The tissue sample holder is in communication with the needle to receive one or more tissue samples within a sample chamber defined by the tissue sample holder. The tissue sample holder includes a receiving cavity. The sensor is configured to detect x-rays. The receiving cavity is sized and shaped to receive the sensor such that the sensor is removably positioned within the tissue sample holder.

PRIORITY

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent App. No.62/594,796 entitled “Biopsy Device with Applied Imaging,” filed Dec. 5,2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

Biopsy samples have been obtained in a variety of ways in variousmedical procedures using a variety of devices. Biopsy devices may beused under stereotactic guidance, ultrasound guidance, MRI guidance, PEMguidance, BSGI guidance, or otherwise. For instance, some biopsy devicesmay be fully operable by a user using a single hand, and with a singleinsertion, to capture one or more biopsy samples from a patient. Inaddition, some biopsy devices may be tethered to a vacuum module and/orcontrol module, such as for communication of fluids (e.g., pressurizedair, saline, atmospheric air, vacuum, etc.), for communication of power,and/or for communication of commands and the like. Other biopsy devicesmay be fully or at least partially operable without being tethered orotherwise connected with another device.

Merely exemplary biopsy devices and biopsy system components aredisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,526,822, entitled “Method and Apparatus forAutomated Biopsy and Collection of Soft Tissue,” issued Jun. 18, 1996;U.S. Pat. No. 6,086,544, entitled “Control Apparatus for an AutomatedSurgical Biopsy Device,” issued Jul. 11, 2000; U.S. Pat. No. 7,442,171,entitled “Remote Thumbwheel for a Surgical Biopsy Device,” issued Oct.8, 2008; U.S. Pat. No. 7,854,706, entitled “Clutch and Valving Systemfor Tetherless Biopsy Device,” issued Dec. 1, 2010; U.S. Pat. No.7,938,786, entitled “Vacuum Timing Algorithm for Biopsy Device,” issuedMay 10, 2011; and U.S. Pat. No. 8,118,755, entitled “Biopsy SampleStorage,” issued Feb. 21, 2012. The disclosure of each of theabove-cited U.S. Patents is incorporated by reference herein.

After extracting a biopsy specimen from a patient using one of the abovedisclosed exemplary biopsy devices or biopsy system components, anoperator may desire to examine the tissue specimen through certainimaging modalities. The operator may be limited in the promptness ofexamining the sample under such conditions as the time required toextract the tissue sample from the biopsy device, position the sampleinto an examination container, and subsequently insert the examinationcontainer into an imaging system to produce images of the specimen foranalysis is extensive.

While several systems and methods have been made and used for obtaininga biopsy sample, it is believed that no one prior to the inventor hasmade or used the invention described in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims which particularly pointout and distinctly claim this technology, it is believed this technologywill be better understood from the following description of certainexamples taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in whichlike reference numerals identify the same elements and in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a schematic view of an exemplary biopsy system includinga biopsy device and a vacuum control module;

FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary biopsy device of thebiopsy system of FIG. 1, including an exemplary probe coupled with anexemplary holster;

FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view of the biopsy device of FIG. 2, withthe probe decoupled from the holster;

FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of the probe of the biopsy device ofFIG. 2;

FIG. 5 depicts an exploded view of the probe of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 depicts a cross-sectional view of a needle assembly of the probeof FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 depicts a partial top plan view of components of the probe ofFIG. 4, with a top housing piece removed;

FIG. 8 depicts a side cross-sectional view of the components of FIG. 7,taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of a tissue sample holder assembly ofthe probe of FIG. 4;

FIG. 10 depicts an exploded view of a proximal end of the probe of FIG.4;

FIG. 11 depicts a side cross-sectional view of the tissue sample holderassembly of FIG. 9, with a tissue sample chamber aligned with thecutter;

FIG. 12 depicts an exploded view of the tissue sample holder assembly ofFIG. 9;

FIG. 13 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary digital sensor;

FIG. 14 depicts an exploded perspective view of the digital sensor ofFIG. 13;

FIG. 15 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary imaging device;

FIG. 16A depicts a side elevational view of the biopsy device of FIG. 2,with the digital sensor of FIG. 13 being advanced towards the tissuesample holder assembly of FIG. 9;

FIG. 16B depicts the side elevational view of the biopsy device similarto FIG. 16A, but with the digital sensor positioned within the tissuesample holder assembly;

FIG. 17A depicts a side cross-sectional view of the biopsy device ofFIG. 16A;

FIG. 17B depicts a side cross-sectional view of the biopsy device ofFIG. 16B;

FIG. 17C depicts a side cross-sectional view of the biopsy devicesimilar to FIG. 17B, but with the imaging device of FIG. 15 positionedadjacent to the tissue sample holder assembly;

FIG. 18 depicts a schematic diagram of the imaging device of FIG. 15transmitting a beam towards the digital sensor of FIG. 13, with thedigital sensor outputting a processed image of the contents contained inthe tissue sample holder assembly;

FIG. 19 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary alternative biopsydevice, including a distal tissue sample viewing window;

FIG. 20 depicts a side cross-sectional view of the biopsy device of FIG.19, with the imaging device of FIG. 15 selectively positioned adjacentto the distal tissue sample viewing window;

FIG. 21 depicts a side elevational view of another exemplary alternativebiopsy device, including a proximal tissue sample viewing window;

FIG. 22 depicts a side cross-sectional view of the biopsy device of FIG.21, with the imaging device of FIG. 15 selectively positioned adjacentto the proximal tissue sample viewing window;

FIG. 23 depicts a side elevational view of the biopsy device of FIG. 2,with an exemplary alternative imaging device selectively positionedadjacent to the tissue sample holder assembly;

FIG. 24 depicts a side cross-sectional view of the biopsy device of FIG.23, the biopsy device including an exemplary digital sensor positionedwithin the tissue sample holder assembly;

FIG. 25 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary alternativeimaging device, including an exemplary clamp arm and exemplary digitalsensor, with the tissue sample holder assembly of FIG. 9 received by theclamp arm;

FIG. 26 depicts a side elevational view of the imaging device of FIG.25, with the tissue sample holder assembly positioned between thedigital sensor and the imaging device;

FIG. 27 depicts a side elevational view of another exemplary alternativeimaging device, including an exemplary tissue holder receiving arm andexemplary digital sensor, with the tissue sample holder assembly of FIG.9 received by the tissue holder receiving arm;

FIG. 28 depicts a partial side elevational view of the imaging device ofFIG. 27, with the digital sensor contained within the tissue holderreceiving arm and received through the tissue sample holder assembly;and

FIG. 29 depicts a partial top elevational view of the imaging device ofFIG. 28, with the tissue sample holder assembly slidably engaged ontothe tissue holder receiving arm.

The drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and it iscontemplated that various embodiments of the technology may be carriedout in a variety of other ways, including those not necessarily depictedin the drawings. The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming apart of the specification illustrate several aspects of the presenttechnology, and together with the description serve to explain theprinciples of the technology; it being understood, however, that thistechnology is not limited to the precise arrangements shown.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description of certain examples of the technology shouldnot be used to limit its scope. Other examples, features, aspects,embodiments, and advantages of the technology will become apparent tothose skilled in the art from the following description, which is by wayof illustration, one of the best modes contemplated for carrying out thetechnology. As will be realized, the technology described herein iscapable of other different and obvious aspects, all without departingfrom the technology. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions shouldbe regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

I. OVERVIEW OF EXEMPLARY BIOPSY SYSTEM

FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary biopsy system (2) comprising a biopsy device(10) and a vacuum control module (400). Biopsy device (10) of thisexample comprises a probe (100) and a holster (200), as shown in FIGS.2-3. A needle (110) extends distally from probe (100), and is insertedinto a patient's tissue to obtain tissue samples. These tissue samplesare deposited in a tissue sample holder (300) at the proximal end ofprobe (100), as will also be described in greater detail below. Itshould also be understood that the use of the term “holster” hereinshould not be read as requiring any portion of probe (100) to beinserted into any portion of holster (200). In the present example,holster (200) includes a set of prongs (208) that are received by thechassis (106) of probe (100) to releasably secure probe (100) to holster(200). In particular, probe (100) is first positioned on top of holster(200), just proximal to its final position relative to holster (200);then probe (100) is slid distally to fully engage prongs (208). Probe(100) also includes a set of resilient tabs (104) that may be pressedinwardly to disengage prongs (208), such that a user may simultaneouslydepress both tabs (104) then pull probe (100) rearwardly and away fromholster (200) to decouple probe (100) from holster (200). Of course, avariety of other types of structures, components, features, etc. (e.g.,bayonet mounts, latches, clamps, clips, snap fittings, etc.) may be usedto provide removable coupling of probe (100) and holster (200).Furthermore, in some biopsy devices (10), probe (100) and holster (200)may be of unitary or integral construction, such that the two componentscannot be separated. By way of example only, in versions where probe(100) and holster (200) are provided as separable components, probe(100) may be provided as a disposable component, while holster (200) maybe provided as a reusable component. Still other suitable structural andfunctional relationships between probe (100) and holster (200) will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

Some variations of biopsy device (10) may include one or more sensors(not shown), in probe (100) and/or in holster (200), that is/areconfigured to detect when probe (100) is coupled with holster (200).Such sensors or other features may further be configured to permit onlycertain types of probes (100) and holsters (200) to be coupled together.In addition, or in the alternative, such sensors may be configured todisable one or more functions of probes (100) and/or holsters (200)until a suitable probe (100) and holster (200) are coupled together. Inone merely illustrative example, probe (100) includes a magnet (notshown) that is detected by a hall effect sensor (not shown) or someother type of sensor in holster (200) when probe (100) is coupled withholster (200). As yet another merely illustrative example, coupling ofprobe (100) with holster (200) may be detected using physical contactbetween conductive surfaces or electrodes, using RFID technology, and/orin numerous other ways as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art in view of the teachings herein. Of course, such sensors andfeatures may be varied or omitted as desired.

Biopsy device (10) of the present example is configured to mount to atable or fixture, and be used under stereotactic guidance. Of course,biopsy device (10) may instead be used under ultrasound guidance, MRIguidance, PEM guidance, BSGI guidance, or otherwise. It should also beunderstood that biopsy device (10) may be sized and configured such thatbiopsy device (10) may be operated by a single hand of a user. Inparticular, a user may grasp biopsy device (10), insert needle (110)into a patient's breast, and collect one or a plurality of tissuesamples from within the patient's breast, all with just using a singlehand. Alternatively, a user may grasp biopsy device (10) with more thanone hand and/or with any desired assistance. In some settings, the usermay capture a plurality of tissue samples with just a single insertionof needle (110) into the patient's breast. Such tissue samples may bepneumatically deposited in tissue sample holder (300), and laterretrieved from tissue sample holder (300) for analysis. While examplesdescribed herein often refer to the acquisition of biopsy samples from apatient's breast, it should be understood that biopsy device (10) may beused in a variety of other procedures for a variety of other purposesand in a variety of other parts of a patient's anatomy (e.g., prostate,thyroid, etc.). Various exemplary components, features, configurations,and operabilities of biopsy device (10) will be described in greaterdetail below; while other suitable components, features, configurations,and operabilities will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the artin view of the teachings herein.

II. EXEMPLARY HOLSTER

As shown in FIG. 3, holster (200) of the present example includes a tophousing cover (202), side panels (204), and a housing base (206), whichare fixedly secured together. Gears (212, 230) are exposed through tophousing cover (202), and mesh with gears (130, 140) of probe (100) whenprobe (100) and holster (200) are coupled together. In particular, gears(230, 140) drive the actuation assembly of a cutter (150) within needle(110); while gears (212, 130) are employed to rotate needle (110). Gear(not shown) is located at the proximal end of holster (200) and mesheswith gear (not shown) of probe (100) to rotate a rotatable member (310)of tissue sample holder (300).

As noted above, rotation of gear (212) provides rotation of needle (110)relative to probe (100). In the present example, gear (212) is rotatedby rotating knob (210). In particular, knob (210) is coupled with gear(212) by a series of gears (not shown) and shafts (not shown), such thatrotation of knob (210) rotates gear (212). A second knob (210) extendsfrom the other side of holster (200). By way of example only, such aneedle rotation mechanism may be constructed in accordance with theteachings of U.S. Pub. No. 2008/0214955, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein. As another merely illustrativeexample, a needle rotation mechanism may be constructed in accordancewith the teachings of U.S. Pub. No. 2010/0160819, the disclosure ofwhich is incorporated by reference herein. In some other versions,needle (110) is rotated by a motor. In still other versions, needle(110) is simply rotated by rotating thumbwheel (116). Various othersuitable ways in which rotation of needle (110) may be provided will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein. It should also be understood that some versions may provide norotation of needle (110).

Holster (200) also includes a firing rod (226) and fork (222), whichcouple with needle (110) and fire needle (110) distally. By way ofexample only, such firing may be useful in instances where biopsy device(10) is mounted to a stereotactic table fixture or other fixture, withtip (112) adjacent to a patient's breast, such that the needle firingmechanism may be activated to drive needle (110) into the patient'sbreast. The needle firing mechanism may be configured to drive needle(110) along any suitable range of motion, to drive tip (112) to anysuitable distance relative to fixed components of probe (100).

In the present example, the needle firing mechanism is coupled withneedle (110) via a firing rod (226) and a firing fork (222). Firing rod(226) and firing fork (222) are unitarily secured together. Firing fork(222) includes a pair of prongs (224) that receive hub member (120) ofneedle (110) therebeteween. Prongs (224) are positioned between annularflange (118) and thumbwheel (116), such that needle (110) will translateunitarily with firing rod (226) and fork (222). Prongs (224)nevertheless removably receive hub member (120), such that fork (222)may be readily secured to hub member (120) when probe (100) is coupledwith holster (200); and such that hub member (120) may be readilyremoved from fork (222) when probe (100) is decoupled from holster(200). Prongs (224) are also configured to permit hub member (120) torotate between prongs (224). Other suitable components, configurations,and relationships will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the artin view of the teachings herein. The internal components of the needlefiring mechanism of the present example are configured and arranged asdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,858,465, entitled “Biopsy Device withMotorized Needle Firing,” issued Oct. 14, 2014, the disclosure of whichis incorporated by reference herein.

Holster (200) includes motors (not shown) to drive gears (230) tothereby rotate and translate cutter (150) and rotate rotatable member(310) of tissue sample holder (300). Holster (200) also includes a motor(not shown) that is operable to drive firing rod (226), to thereby armand fire needle (110). All motors referred to herein are containedwithin holster (200) in the present example and receive power fromvacuum control module (400) via cable (90). In addition, data may becommunicated between vacuum control module (400) and holster (200) viacable (90). As will be described in greater detail below, such data maybe used by control module (400) to display certain graphical userinterface screens on a touchscreen (410) integrated into control module(400). In some other versions, one or more motors are powered by one ormore batteries located within holster (200) and/or probe (100). Itshould therefore be understood that, as with other components describedherein, cable (90) is merely optional. As yet another merelyillustrative variation, motors may be powered pneumatically, such thatcable (90) may be substituted with a conduit communicating a pressurizedfluid medium to holster (200). As still other merely illustrativevariation, cable (90) may include one or more rotary drive cables thatare driven by motors that are located external to holster (200). Itshould also be understood that two or three of the motors may becombined as a single motor. Other suitable ways in which various themotors may be driven will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in theart in view of the teachings herein.

III. EXEMPLARY PROBE

Probe (100) of the present example includes a needle (110) extendingdistally from probe (100) that is inserted into a patient's tissue toobtain tissue samples. These tissue samples are deposited in a tissuesample holder (300) at the proximal end of probe (100). As shown in FIG.1, vacuum control module (400) is coupled with probe (100) via a valveassembly (500) and tubes (20, 31, 40, 60), which is operable toselectively provide vacuum, saline, atmospheric air, and venting toprobe (100). The internal components of the valve assembly of thepresent example are configured and arranged as described in U.S. Pub.No. 2013/0218047, entitled “Biopsy Device Valve Assembly,” publishedAug. 22, 2013, the disclosure of which is incorporated by referenceherein.

As shown in FIGS. 1-6, probe (100) also includes a chassis (106) and atop housing (102), which are fixedly secured together. As best seen inFIG. 3, a gear (140) is exposed through an opening (107) in chassis(106), and is operable to drive cutter actuation mechanism in probe(100). As also seen in FIG. 3, another gear (130) is exposed throughchassis (106), and is operable to rotate needle (110) as will bedescribed in greater detail below. Gear (140) of probe (100) meshes withexposed gear (230) of holster (200) when probe (100) and holster (200)are coupled together. Similarly, gear (130) of probe (100) meshes withexposed gear (212) of holster (200) when probe (100) and holster (200)are coupled together.

A. Exemplary Needle Assembly

Needle (110) of the present example comprises a cannula (113) having atissue piercing tip (112), a lateral aperture (114) located proximal totip (112), and a hub member (120). Tissue piercing tip (112) isconfigured to pierce and penetrate tissue, without requiring a highamount of force, and without requiring an opening to be pre-formed inthe tissue prior to insertion of tip (112). Alternatively, tip (112) maybe blunt (e.g., rounded, flat, etc.) if desired. By way of example only,tip (112) may be configured in accordance with any of the teachings inU.S. Pat. No. 8,801,742, entitled “Needle Assembly and Blade Assemblyfor Biopsy Device,” issued Aug. 12, 2014, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein. As another merely illustrativeexample, tip (112) may be configured in accordance with at least some ofthe teachings in U.S. Pub. No. 2013/0150751, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein. Other suitable configurations that maybe used for tip (112) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in theart in view of the teachings herein.

Lateral aperture (114) is sized to receive prolapsed tissue duringoperation of device (10). A hollow tubular cutter (150) having a sharpdistal edge (152) is located within needle (110). Cutter (150) isoperable to rotate and translate relative to needle (110) and pastlateral aperture (114) to sever a tissue sample from tissue protrudingthrough lateral aperture (114). For instance, cutter (150) may be movedfrom an extended position to a retracted position, thereby “opening”lateral aperture (114) to allow tissue to protrude therethrough; thenfrom the retracted position back to the extended position to sever theprotruding tissue. As will be described in greater detail below, needle(110) may be rotated to orient lateral aperture (114) at any desiredangular position about the longitudinal axis of needle (110). Suchrotation of needle (110) is facilitated in the present example by hubmember (120), which is described in greater detail below.

As best seen in FIG. 6, needle (110) also includes a longitudinal wall(190) extending proximally from the proximal portion of tip (112). Whilewall (190) does not extend along the full length of cannula (113) inthis example, it should be understood that wall (190) may extend thefull length of cannula (113) if desired. Wall (190) defines a distalportion of a second lumen (192) that is lateral to and parallel tocutter (150). Wall (190) proximally terminates at a longitudinalposition that is just proximal to the location of distal cutting edge(152) of cutter (150) when cutter (150) is in a proximal-most positionas shown in FIG. 6. The exterior of cutter (150) and the interior ofcannula (113) together define the proximal portion of second lumen (192)in the length of needle (110) that is proximal to the proximal end ofwall (190).

Wall (190) includes a plurality of openings (194) that provide fluidcommunication between second lumen (192) and the region within cannula(113) that is above wall (190) and below lateral aperture (114). Thisfurther provides fluid communication between second lumen (192) and thelumen (151) defined by the interior of cutter (150), as will bedescribed in greater detail below. Openings (194) are arranged such thatat least one opening (194) is located at a longitudinal position that isdistal to the distal edge of lateral aperture (114). Thus, the lumen(151) of cutter (150) and second lumen (192) may remain in fluidcommunication even when cutter (150) is advanced to a position where thedistal cutting edge of cutter (150) is located at a longitudinalposition that is distal to the longitudinal position of the distal edgeof lateral aperture (114). An example of such a configuration isdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,918,803, entitled “Methods and Devices forAutomated Biopsy and Collection of Soft Tissue,” issued Apr. 5, 2011,the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. Of course,as with any other component described herein, any other suitableconfigurations may be used.

A plurality of external openings (not shown) may also be formed inneedle (110), and may be in fluid communication with second lumen (192).For instance, such external openings may be configured in accordancewith the teachings of U.S. Pub. No. 2007/0032742, entitled “BiopsyDevice with Vacuum Assisted Bleeding Control,” published Feb. 8, 2007,the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. Of course,as with other components described herein, such external openings inneedle (110) are merely optional.

Hub member (120) of the present example is overmolded about needle(110), such that hub member (120) and needle (110) rotate and translateunitarily with each other. By way of example only, needle (110) may beformed of metal, and hub member (120) may be formed of a plasticmaterial that is overmolded about needle (110) to unitarily secure andform hub member (120) to needle (110). Hub member (120) and needle (110)may alternatively be formed of any other suitable material(s), and maybe secured together in any other suitable fashion. Hub member (120)includes an annular flange (118) and a thumbwheel (116). Gear (130) isslidably and coaxially disposed on a proximal portion (150) of hubmember (120) and is keyed to hub member (120), such that rotation ofgear (130) will rotate hub member (120) and needle (110); yet hub member(120) and needle (110) may translate relative to gear (130). Gear (130)is rotatably driven by gear (212). Alternatively, needle (110) may berotated by rotating thumbwheel (116). Various other suitable ways inwhich manual rotation of needle (110) may be provided will be apparentto those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.It should also be understood that rotation of needle (110) may beautomated in various ways, including but not limited to the variousforms of automatic needle rotation described in various references thatare cited herein.

As shown in FIGS. 4-7, a manifold (122) is attached, mounted, orotherwise secured to the proximal end of needle (110). Manifold (122)defines a hollow interior (124) and includes a port (126) in fluidcommunication with hollow interior (124). As best seen in FIG. 6, hollowinterior (124) is also in fluid communication with second lumen (192) ofneedle (110). Port (126) is coupled with tube (46), such that manifold(122) provides fluid communication between second lumen (192) and tube(46). Manifold (122) also seals against the exterior of needle (110)such that manifold (122) provides a fluid tight coupling between secondlumen (192) and tube (46) even if needle (110) is translated and/orrotated relative to manifold (122), such as during firing of needle(110) or re-orientation of needle (110), respectively.

As shown in FIG. 4, needle (110) may be provided with a removable cover(115). Cover (115) of this example includes a resiliently biased latch(117) that is configured to engage thumbwheel (116), to therebyremovably secure cover (115) to needle (110). Cover (115) is configuredto cover tip (112) when latch (117) is engaged with thumbwheel (116),such that cover (115) protects the user of biopsy device (10) frominadvertent contact with tip (112). Cover (115) may also include one ormore wiper seals near the proximal end and/or distal end of cover (115),to seal against cannula (113). By way of example only, cover (115) maybe configured in accordance with at least some of the teachings in U.S.Pub. No. 2013/0150751, the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein. Various other suitable configurations for cover (115)will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein. Of course, cover (115) may simply be omitted ifdesired. It should also be understood that, as with other componentsdescribed herein, needle (110) may be varied, modified, substituted, orsupplemented in a variety of ways; and that needle (110) may have avariety of alternative features, components, configurations, andfunctionalities. For instance, needle (110) may be constructed inaccordance with the teachings of U.S. Pub. No. 2008/0214955, thedisclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein, and/or inaccordance with the teachings of any other reference cited herein.

B. Exemplary Cutter Assembly

As noted above, cutter (150) is operable to simultaneously translate androtate relative to needle (110) to sever a tissue sample from tissueprotruding through lateral aperture (114). As best seen in FIGS. 5-7cutter (150) includes an overmold (160) that is unitarily secured tocutter (150). Overmold (160) includes a generally smooth andcylindraceous distal portion (166), threading (162) in a mid-region ofovermold (160), and a set of hexagonal flats (164) extending along aproximal portion of overmold (160). Distal portion (166) extends intomanifold (122). Manifold (122) seals against distal portion (166) suchthat manifold (122) such that manifold (122) maintains the fluid tightcoupling between second lumen (192) and tube (46) even when cutter (150)is translated and rotated relative to manifold (122).

A gear (140) is positioned on flats (164) and includes a set of internalflats (not shown) that complement flats (164). Thus, gear (140) rotatesovermold (160) and cutter (150) when gear (140) is rotated. However,overmold (160) is slidable relative to gear (140), such that cutter(150) may translate relative to chassis (106) despite gear (140) beinglongitudinally fixed relative to chassis (106). Gear (140) is rotated bygear (230). As best seen in FIGS. 7-8, a nut (142) is associated withthreading (162) of overmold (160). In particular, nut (142) includesinternal threading (144) that meshes with threading (162) of overmold(160). Nut (142) is fixedly secured relative to chassis (106). Thus,when gear (140) rotates cutter (150) and overmold (160), cutter (150)will simultaneously translate due to the meshing of threading (144,162). In some versions, the foregoing cutter actuation components arefurther configured in accordance with at least some of the teachings ofU.S. Pub. No. 2008/0214955, the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein. As yet another merely illustrative example, cutter(150) may be rotated and/or translated using pneumatic motors, etc.Still other suitable ways in which cutter (150) may be actuated will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

C. Exemplary Tissue Sample Holder Assembly

Tissue sample holder (300) of the present example provides a pluralityof discrete chambers that are configured to receive tissue samples thatare severed by cutter (150) and communicated proximally through lumen(151) of cutter (150). In particular, and as will be described ingreater detail below, tissue sample holder (300) includes tissuereceiving trays (330) that are removably engaged with a rotatable member(310). Rotatable member (310) is removably engaged with a graspingfeature (184) of a rotation member (180). Rotation member (180) islongitudinally fixed relative to chassis (106) yet is rotatable relativeto chassis (106). Rotation member (180) includes an integral gear (notshown), which meshes with gear (not shown) of holster (200) when probe(100) and holster (200) are coupled together. Gears (not shown)cooperate to rotate rotatable member (310) to index tissue chambersrelative to lumen (151) of cutter (150) as will be described in greaterdetail below. A transparent cover (302) is positioned about rotatablemember (310) and is removably secured to chassis (106). While bayonetfeatures provide coupling between cover (302) and chassis (106), itshould be understood that any suitable type of coupling may be used.Rotatable member (310) is freely rotatable within cover (302). However,rotatable member (310) is engaged with cover (302) such that rotatablemember (310) will decouple relative to chassis (106) when cover (302) isremoved from chassis (106). In other words, rotatable member (310) maybe selectively coupled with and removed relative to chassis (106) bycoupling and removing cover (302) from chassis (106).

As best seen in FIG. 12, rotatable member (310) of the present examplegenerally comprises a rotatable member and defines a plurality ofchambers in the form of passages (312) that extend longitudinallythrough rotatable member (310) and that are angularly arrayed about thecentral axis of rotatable member (310). A lateral recess (314) (FIG. 11)is associated with a distal portion of each passage (312). Shelves (316)demarcate boundaries between each passage (312) and the associatelateral recess (314). As will be described in greater detail below,passages (312) receive trays (330) while recesses (314) providepneumatic passages. An additional passage (313) and recess (315) areassociated with a plug (360), as will also be described in greaterdetail below. Rotatable member (310) also includes a central shaft(320), which is configured to removably engage grasping feature (184).Central shaft (320) couples with grasping feature (184) upon coupling ofouter cup (302) with chassis (106), as described above. Engagementbetween central shaft (320) and grasping feature (184) provides rotationof rotatable member (310) upon rotation of gear (182).

As best seen in FIGS. 10-11, a sealing member (170) is provided at theproximal end of chassis (106) and interfaces with the distal face ofrotatable member (310). In the present example, sealing member (170)comprises rubber, though it should be understood that any other suitablematerial(s) may be used. Sealing member (170) includes a longitudinallyextending cutter seal (172), which receives cutter (150) and sealsagainst the exterior of cutter (150). The proximal end of cutter (150)remains within cutter seal (172) throughout the full range of travel ofcutter (150). Cutter seal (172) maintains a fluid tight seal againstcutter (150) during this full range of motion, including during rotationand translation of cutter (150). An opening (174) is positioned at theproximal end of cutter seal (170). This opening (174) is configured toalign with whichever passage (312, 313) is at the 12 o'clock position.Another opening (176) is positioned below opening (174). Opening (176)is configured to align with whichever recess (314, 315) is at the 12o'clock position. As best seen in FIGS. 9 and 11, opening (176) is influid communication with a port (178), which is coupled with tube (20).Thus, sealing member (170) provides fluid communication between tube(20) and whichever recess (314, 315) is at the 12 o'clock position. Aswill be described in greater detail below, rotatable member (310)further provides fluid communication between such recess (314, 315) andthe associated passage (312, 313) at the 12 o'clock position; andthereby further to lumen (151) of cutter (150). In other words, sealingmember (170) and rotatable member (310) cooperate to provide fluidcommunication between tube (20) and lumen (151) of cutter (150) viawhichever passage (312, 313) and recess (314, 315) are at the 12 o'clockposition. It should be understood that sealing member (170) of thepresent example maintains a fluid tight seal against the distal face ofrotatable member (310), even as rotatable member (310) is rotatedrelative to sealing member (170).

As noted above, tissue sample holder trays (330) are configured toremovably engage rotatable member (310). Each tissue sample holder tray(330) of the present example includes a grip (332), a proximal wall(334), and a plurality of strips (340) extending distally from proximalwall (334). Strips (340) are sized and configured for insertion intoassociated passages (312) of rotatable member (310). Each strip (340)includes a pair of sidewalls (344) and a floor (342). Each pair ofsidewalls (344) and floor (342) together define a corresponding tissuesample chamber (346). An opening (348) is provided at the distal end ofeach tissue sample chamber (346). Opening is sized and positioned tocorrespond with opening (174) of sealing member (170). Thus, the lumen(151) of cutter (150) is in fluid communication with the tissue samplechamber (346) of the strip (340) inserted in the passage (312) that isat the 12 o'clock position. As best seen in FIG. 11, strips (340) areconfigured such that the distal portion of each strip (340) receivessupport from a corresponding shelf (316) of rotatable member (310). Eachfloor (342) includes a plurality of openings (345) that provide fluidcommunication between tissue sample chamber (346) of strip (340) andlateral recess (314) of the passage (312) associated with strip (340).Thus, vacuum, atmospheric air, etc. that is communicated to opening(176) via tube (20) is further communicated to lumen (151) of cutter(150) via lateral recess (314), openings (345), and tissue samplechamber (346). During operation of biopsy device (10), tissue samplessevered by distal edge (152) of cutter (150) are communicated proximallythrough the lumen (151) of cutter (150) and are then deposited into thetissue sample chamber (346) that is aligned with lumen (151) of cutter(150). Rotatable member (310) is rotated to successively align tissuesample chambers (346) with lumen (151) of cutter (150), enabling severaltissue samples to be separately deposited in different tissue samplechambers (346) during operation of biopsy device (10). Bodily fluids andsaline, etc. that are pulled through lumen (151) will pass throughtissue sample holder (300) and tube (20) and are eventually deposited invacuum canister (70).

Each strip (340) also includes a pair of wiper seals (343, 349) thatseal against the interior of passage (312) when strip (340) is fullyinserted into passage (312). Wiper seals (343, 349) provide a fluidtight seal for tissue sample chambers (346) and further providefrictional resistance to removal of strips (340) from rotatable member(310). Grips (332) are configured to facilitate removal of strips (340)from rotatable member (310), such as during or after a biopsy procedureto retrieve or otherwise directly observe tissue samples deposited intissue sample chambers (346). Trays (330) also include numerical indicia(338) associated with each tissue sample chamber (346). In addition,trays (330) include pinched regions (336) that facilitate flattening oftrays (330). In particular, pinched regions (336) provide sufficientflexibility to enable trays (330) to form an arcuate configuration forinsertion into rotatable member (310); while also enabling trays (330)to form a generally flat configuration such as after trays (330) areremoved from rotatable member (310) for inspection of tissue samples intrays (330).

It should be understood that rotatable member (310) and/or trays (330)may be configured in numerous other ways. By way of example only,rotatable member (310) and/or trays (330) may be configured inaccordance with at least some of the teachings of U.S. Pat. Pub. No.2008/0214955, the disclosure of which is incorporated by referenceherein. As another merely illustrative example, rotatable member (310)and/or trays (330) may be configured in accordance with at least some ofthe teachings of U.S. Pat. No. 8,702,623, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein. It should also be understood thattissue sample holder (300) need not necessarily position chambers (346)coaxially with lumen (151) of cutter (150). Tissue sample holder (300)may index chambers (346) relative to cutter (150) in any other suitablefashion. For instance, chambers (346) may extend along axes that arealways offset from the axis of lumen (151), along axes that are obliqueor perpendicular relative to the axis of lumen (151), or along otheraxes. Similarly, it should be understood that rotatable member (310) mayrotate about an axis that is oblique or perpendicular relative to theaxis of lumen (151). Still other suitable configurations will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

As best seen in FIG. 12, and as noted above, tissue sample holder (300)of the present example includes a plug (360) that is received in adedicated passage (313) of rotatable member (310). Plug (360) includes agrip (362) and a longitudinally extending body (364). Body (364) extendsthrough part of the length of passage (313), distally terminating at thelongitudinal position corresponding with the proximal end of recess(315). Plug (360) includes a pair of seals (366, 368) that seal againstthe interior of passage (313) when plug (360) is fully inserted inpassage (313). Seals (366, 368) thus keep passage (313) fluid tight whenplug (360) is inserted in passage (313). Passage (313) is configured toreceive the shaft of a biopsy site marker applier. Passage (313) mayalso receive an instrument for delivering medicine, etc. to a biopsysite. By way of example only, passage (313) may receive an adapterconfigured to provide an interface between passage (313) and aconventional medicine deliver device. An example of such an adapter andother uses/configurations for a passage like passage (313) are describedin U.S. Pat. No. 8,118,755, the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein. Plug (360) and/or passage (313) may also be configuredand operable in accordance with at least some of the teachings of U.S.Pat. No. 8,938,285, the disclosure of which is incorporated by referenceherein. Still other suitable configurations will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. In some otherversions, plug (360) and/or passage (313) are simply omitted.

As described above, tissue sample holder (300) is generally configuredto collect a plurality of tissue samples individually in discrete tissuesample trays (330). However, it should be understood that in someexamples it may be desirable to collect a plurality of tissue samples ina single chamber. By way of example only, such a feature may bedesirable where tissue samples are collected merely for removal oftissue from a patient, rather than for diagnostic purposes. Of course,in such circumstances, tissue samples collected in a single chamber maylater be used for diagnostic purposes, even if the original intent wasmerely for tissue removal. In addition or in alternative, some operatorsmay prefer collecting a plurality of tissue samples in a single chamberrather than individual chambers when collecting tissue samples fordiagnostic purposes. In still further instances, an operator may desireto alternate between the modes described above to briefly analyze tissuesample quality using an individual tissue sample mode of collection andthen proceed to a bulk tissue sample mode of collection for collectionof tissue samples in the same general anatomical area. Thus, it shouldbe understood that in some examples it may be desirable to include ameans of bulk tissue collection in a tissue sample holder similar totissue sample holder (300) described above.

IV. EXEMPLARY IMAGING SYSTEM

In some instances, it may be beneficial to immediately examine arecently biopsied tissue specimen through certain imaging modalities tothereby quickly analyze and assess the tissue properties. However, anoperator may be limited in how quickly the tissue sample can be analyzedby an imaging device due to the time elapsed extracting the tissuesample from the biopsy device, positioning the tissue sample into anexamination container, and subsequently inserting the examinationcontainer into an imaging system to produce images of the specimen foranalysis. A biopsy device that is adapted to directly associate with animaging system may be beneficial to reduce the amount of time and effortrequired to analyze a tissue sample during a biopsy procedure.Furthermore, being able to take an immediate image of a tissue specimenthat was recently biopsied from a patient allows an operator to confirmwhether the targeted tissue was successfully acquired at each instanceof tissue extraction, thereby reducing the number of tissue samplesextracted from the patient.

In biopsy devices such as device (10) described above, it may bebeneficial to configure the components of the device, such as tissuesample holder (300), to cooperate with certain imaging modalities tothereby simplify the process for an operator to obtain and reviewgraphical representations or other images of the biopsied tissuespecimen. This practice may eliminate several intermediate stepsrequired in generating images of a biopsied specimen and thus maximizethe effectiveness of analyzing the characteristics of a tissue sample ofa patient. It may be further desirable to integrate the imaging systemwith a biopsy device into a single assembly, while in other instances itmay be desirable to adapt the biopsy device to function in associationwith a separate imaging modality.

The following description provides various examples of a biopsy deviceand corresponding imaging system that are cooperatively configured toproduce images of a recently biopsied tissue sample prior to the removalof the specimen from the biopsy device. Ultimately, the association ofthe biopsy device with certain imaging modalities may be beneficial toensure an operator is able to receive any pertinent data from thegenerated image in a timely manner. It should be understood that theimaging systems described below may be readily incorporated into any ofthe various biopsy devices (10) described above and utilized in any ofthe various surgical procedures described in the various referencesdescribed herein. Other suitable ways in which the below-describedbiopsy devices and imaging systems may be used will be apparent to thoseof ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

A. Biopsy Device with Sensor-Receiving Cavity

As shown in FIGS. 13-15, an exemplary imaging system (550) comprises asensor (552) and an imaging device (560). In the present example, sensor(552) is generally configured as a digital sensor, but in other examplessensor (552) can include any other suitable sensor. For instance, insome examples sensor (552) comprises a charge-coupled device (CCD)sensor, a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor, indiumgallium arsenide sensors, conventional film, and/or any other sensor aswill be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Particularly, asshown in FIGS. 13-14, sensor (552) includes an electronic circuit (553),an imager (554), a fiber optic plate (555) and a scintillator (556)encapsulated within an outer casing (557). Sensor (552) is a diagnosticimaging sensor that is operable to convert and transmit data digitally.

Although not shown, it should be understood that sensor (552) mayinclude additional or alternative internal components than thosedepicted. For example, sensor (552) may include components correspondingto those included in an interline transfer CCD sensor, frame transferCCD sensor, on-chip A/D conversion CMOS sensor, off-chip A/D conversionCMOS sensor, those used in short-wave infrared (SWIR) imaging, orthermal imaging. Such internal components of sensor (552) may includevarious transistors, pixels (photodiodes or photocapacitors), and/orother components as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in theart. The size and shape of the pixels in sensor (552) may vary tooptimize, among other things, the imaging optics, saturation capacities,and signal-to-noise ratios, resolution, spatial frequencies andcontrast. The overall size of sensor (552) may also vary to optimize thesystem's field of view. By way of example only, sensor (552) may besized as ¼″, ⅓″, ½″, 1/1.8″, ⅔″, 1″, 1.2″ or any other size as will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

As seen in FIG. 15, imaging device (560) includes a head (562), a base(564) and an extension arm (566) extending therebetween. Extension arm(566) is configured to extend and pivot about base (564) to therebyallow for the selective positioning of head (562). Imaging device (560)is operable to communicate with sensor (552) by transmitting ahigh-energy beam (e.g., x-ray, etc.) through air until encounteringsensor (552) (see FIG. 18). In particular, head (562) is configured totransmit high-energy beams outwardly upon actuation of imaging device(560). As will be described in greater detail below, any intermediateobjects positioned between head (562) and sensor (552), i.e. a biopsiedtissue sample, will interact with the high-energy rays transmitted byimaging device (560) and be identified and depicted in a correspondingimage generated by imaging system (550). By way of example only, imagingsystem (550) may be operable to generate x-ray images (e.g., radiographyimages), optical coherence tomography images, multipicture or videos,high definition ultrasound images, or other images as will be apparentto those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

FIG. 16A shows a biopsy device (510) including a needle (511) attachedon a distal end and a tissue sample holder (530) attached on a proximalend, respectively. It should be understood that biopsy device (510),needle (511), and tissue sample holder (530) of this example may beconfigured and operable just like biopsy device (10), needle (110), andtissue sample holder (300), respectively, described above, except forthe differences explicitly noted herein. As best seen in FIG. 17A,tissue sample holder (530) includes an internal cavity (531) centrallypositioned about multiple tissue sample chambers (546). Internal cavity(301) is sized and shaped to receive sensor (552) therein.

In the present example, an operator grasps biopsy device (510), insertsneedle (511) into a patient's breast, and collects one or a plurality oftissue samples (30) from the patient. Such tissue samples (30) may bepneumatically deposited in tissue sample holder (530). Rather than anoperator detaching tissue sample holder (530) from biopsy device (510)to thereby retrieve tissue samples (30) for analysis, sensor (552) isslidably advanced towards a distal end of biopsy device (510), as seenin FIG. 16A. In particular, FIG. 16B shows sensor (552) aligned withtissue sample holder (530) such that sensor (552) is received by biopsydevice (510) within tissue sample holder (530). As best seen in FIG.17A, sensor (552) is slidably received within internal cavity (531) oftissue sample holder (530) such that sensor (552) is aligned with andfacing one or more tissue sample chambers (546). In the present example,sensor (552) is facing upwardly from within internal cavity (531)towards one or more tissue sample chambers (546) that are directly abovesensor (552), as seen in FIG. 17B. In this alignment, sensor (552) isideally positioned to image the tissue sample (30) that is depositedwithin the tissue sample chamber (546) that is in fluid communicationwith needle (511).

Although sensor (552) in the present example is sized to extendadjacently to one or more tissue sample chambers (546), it should beunderstood that sensor (552) may be sized and shaped to extend adjacentto more or fewer tissue sample chambers (546). For instance, sensor(552) may be sized and shaped such that a single tissue sample (30)deposited within an individual tissue sample chamber (546) is capable ofbeing imaged at a time. Alternatively, sensor (552) may have a greatersize and shape such that multiple tissue samples (30) contained inmultiple tissue sample chambers (546), respectively, may be imagedsimultaneously.

With sensor (552) inserted within internal cavity (531) of tissue sampleholder (530), an operator selectively positions imaging device (560)directly above tissue sample holder (530) such that tissue samplechamber (546), containing tissue sample (30), is positioned betweensensor (552) and head (562), as seen in FIG. 17C. In this instance, anoperator activates imaging system (550) to transmit x-ray radiation fromimaging device (560) towards tissue sample (30) until encounteringsensor (552), as seen in FIG. 18. Tissue sample (30) absorbs some of theenergy or radiation transmitted by head (562), and a corresponding imageis generated by imaging system (550) processing x-rays received bysensor (552). In the present example, imaging system (550) is operableto transmit x-ray radiation from head (562) to sensor (552) therebygenerate x-ray images. Although not shown, it should be understood thatimaging system (550) may be operable to generate other images, includingbut not limited to, optical coherence tomography images, multipicture orvideos, high definition ultrasound images, or other images as will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

As a result, an image of tissue sample (30) is immediately generated byimaging system (550) for the benefit of an operator's timely review andassessment. In the present example, an operator is not required toinitially disassemble tissue sample holder (530) from biopsy device(510), to subsequently remove tissue sample (30) from tissue samplechamber (546) for subsequent placement into an examination container(not shown) before being able to generate an image of sample (30). Anoperator rotates tissue sample holder (530) relative to the body ofbiopsy device (510) such that tissue sample chambers (546) arerepositioned. In this instance, a different tissue sample chamber (546)is positioned directly above sensor (552) such that the tissue sample(30) located within this tissue sample chamber (546) is now positionedbetween head (562) and sensor (552) for examination. An operator maycontinue to rotate tissue sample holder (530) while maintaining sensor(552) at a fixed orientation, facing upwardly, to effectively imagemultiple tissue samples (30) that are deposited into separate tissuesample chambers (546) of tissue sample holder (530). Alternatively, theorientation of tissue sample holder (530) may remain stationary as anoperator rotates sensor (552) within internal cavity (531). In thisinstance, although not shown, imaging device (560) is similarlyrealigned to relative to tissue sample holder (530) to thereby directhead (562) towards the front face of sensor (552).

In some examples, imaging device (560) can be integrated into a patientsupport system or other systems associated with biopsy device (510) topromote multiple uses of imaging device (560). For instance, in someexamples biopsy device (510) is used in connection with a stereotacticimaging system such as the MAMMOTEST stereotactic biopsy tablemanufactured by Devicor Medical Products, Inc. of Cincinnati, Ohio. Insuch systems, an x-ray source similar to imaging device (560) is mountedon a swivel arm to orient the x-ray source relative to patient. Wheresuch a stereotactic imaging system is used, the x-ray source can beconfigured in lieu of imaging device (560). In such examples,modifications may be made to the stereotactic imaging system to provideenhanced flexibility for movement of the x-ray source relative to biopsydevice (510).

As shown in FIG. 18, imaging system (550) can be in communication withcontrol module (400) to promote coordination between biopsy device (510)and imaging system (550). For instance, in some examples imaging system(550) includes a computer (555) configured for image processing andcontrol of imaging device (560). In this configuration, computer (555)generally controls the acquisition and processing of x-ray images.Computer (555) can be further in communication with control module (400)to send and receive signals to/from control module (400). In oneexemplary use, this communication between control module (400) andcomputer (555) can be used to automate the imaging process. Forinstance, in some uses, control module (400) can be configured toprovide an indication to computer (555) when a biopsy sample has beencollected. In response to this communication, computer (555) can thenbegin an imaging process automatically to acquire an image of thecollected tissue sample. Thus, the communication between computer (555)and control module (400) can be configured to provide automated imagingin real time.

B. Biopsy Device with an Integral Digital Sensor

FIG. 19 shows an exemplary alternative biopsy device (600) comprising aprobe (610), a holster (620) and a tissue sample holder (630). Except asotherwise described below, biopsy device (600) and tissue sample holder(630) may be configured and operable just like biopsy device (10) andtissue sample holder (300), respectively, described above. Biopsy device(600) further comprises a tissue sample window (604) disposed proximallyof the distal end of probe (610). Exemplary biopsy devices includingtissue sample windows may be construed in accordance with the teachingsof U.S. App. No. 62/505,571, entitled “Biopsy Device with SterileSleeve,” filed on May 17, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporatedby reference herein.

In some examples, tissue sample window (604) exposes a gate assembly(not shown), such that the gate assembly is visible to an operatorthough probe (610). The gate assembly is generally configured toselectively arrest movement of the severed tissue sample (30) within thefluid conduit between the cutter and the tissue sample holder (630). Thegate assembly enables the operator to temporarily cease progression oftissue sample (30) for visual inspection though tissue sample window(604) of probe (610). At least a portion of the gate assembly is coupledto cutter to communicate rotational and translational motion of gateassembly to cutter. Thus, it should be understood that rotation andtranslation of cutter drive member (not shown) results in correspondingrotation and translation of cutter via the coupling between at least aportion of the gate portion and at least a portion of the gate assembly.In some examples, the gate assembly may be constructed in accordancewith the teachings of U.S. App. No. 62/429,379, entitled “Apparatus toAllow Biopsy Sample Visualization During Tissue Removal,” filed on Dec.2, 2016, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.

As best seen in FIG. 20, biopsy device (600) includes a sensor (652)proximate to a distal end of probe (610). Sensor (652) is positionedbelow tissue sample window (604). It should be understood that sensor(652) of this example may be configured and operable just like sensor(552) described above, except for the differences explicitly notedherein. Sensor (652) has a longitudinal length substantially equal to,or greater than, the length of tissue sample window (604) such that anytissue sample (30) contained within tissue sample window (604) will notexceed beyond the dimensions of sensor (652) to thereby ensure acomplete image of tissue sample (30) is attainable. Sensor (652) is adiagnostic imaging sensor that is operable to convert and transmit datadigitally. Sensor (652) is a reusable sensor such that sensor (652) isoperable to be inserted within probe (610) prior to a medical procedureand subsequently removed from biopsy device (600) after the procedure.

In the present example, after needle (611) is inserted into a patient'sbreast to collect tissue sample (30), tissue sample (30) is directed totissue sample window (604) prior to being deposited into tissue sampleholder (630). In this instance, as seen in FIG. 20, an operatorselectively positions imaging device (560) directly above tissue samplewindow (604), containing tissue sample (30), such that tissue sample(30) is positioned between sensor (652) and head (562). In thisinstance, an operator activates imaging system (550) to transmit x-rayradiation from imaging device (560) towards tissue sample (30) untilencountering sensor (652), resulting in the production of an image oftissue sample (30). As a result, an operator is able to analyze thetissue characteristics of sample (30) without needing to collect sample(30) within tissue sample holder (630) before removing tissue sample(30) for subsequent placement into an examination container (not shown)for imaging by imaging system (550). Once an image of tissue sample (30)has been generated from imaging system (550), an operator actuates thegate assembly (not shown) of biopsy device (600) to thereby transfertissue sample (30) out of tissue sample window (604) and into tissuesample holder (630). In this instance, an operator may continue toactuate the cutter of needle (611) within a patient to thereby extract asecond tissue sample (30) into tissue sample window (604) forexamination.

In some instances, it may be desirable for the tissue sample window tobe positioned distally adjacent to the tissue sample holder andproximally relative to the needle, such that the recently biopsiedtissue sample (30) may be inspected by an operator at the proximal endof the biopsy device, which is closer to the operator. In this instance,the proximal positioning of the tissue sample window may provide anoperator with an improved perspective of the tissue sample (30)deposited therein due to the closer proximity of the tissue samplewindow and the operator. As shown in FIG. 21, a biopsy device (670)includes a tissue sample window (674) positioned adjacently relative toa proximal end of device (670) such that tissue sample window (674)still receives tissue sample (30) from a needle (676) prior to beingdeposited in a tissue sample holder (678). In some examples, tissuesample window (674) may be associated with a gate assembly (not shown)incorporated into a portion of probe (672). The gate assembly isgenerally configured to selectively arrest movement of the severedtissue sample (30) within the fluid conduit between the cutter andtissue sample holder (678). The gate assembly enables the operator totemporarily cease progression of tissue samples (30) for visualinspection though tissue sample window (674). In some examples, the gateassembly may be constructed in accordance with the teachings of U.S.App. No. 62/429,379, entitled “Apparatus to Allow Biopsy SampleVisualization During Tissue Removal,” filed on Dec. 2, 2016, thedisclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. Alternatively,biopsy device (670) may simply lack a gate assembly, such that severedtissue samples (30) are permitted to travel freely to tissue sampleholder (678).

As best seen in FIG. 22, a sensor (682) is adjacent to a proximal end ofa probe (672). As similarly shown in FIG. 20, sensor (682) is positionedbelow tissue sample window (674) and has a longitudinal lengthsubstantially equal to, or greater than, the length of tissue samplewindow (674). As such, any tissue sample (30) contained within tissuesample window (674) will not extend beyond the dimensions of sensor(682) to thereby ensure a complete image of tissue sample (30) isgenerated during each instance. In the present example, after needle(676) is inserted into a patient's breast to collect tissue sample (30),tissue sample (30) is directed to tissue sample window (674) prior tobeing deposited into tissue sample holder (678). In this instance, anoperator selectively positions imaging device (560) directly abovetissue sample window (674), containing tissue sample (30), such thattissue sample (30) is positioned between sensor (682) and head (562).With the proximal positioning of tissue sample window (674) relative tobiopsy device (670), an operator is able to easily position imagingdevice (550) adjacent to tissue sample (30) as tissue sample window(674) is generally closer to an operator than tissue sample window (604)of biopsy device (600).

Once imaging device (560) is positioned as desired, an operatoractivates imaging system (550) to transmit x-ray radiation from imagingdevice (560) towards tissue sample (30) until encountering sensor (682),resulting in the production of an image of tissue sample (30). As aresult, an operator is able to analyze the tissue characteristics ofsample (30) without needing to collect sample (30) within tissue sampleholder (678) before removing tissue sample (30) for subsequent placementinto an examination container (not shown) for imaging by imaging system(550). Once an image of tissue sample (30) has been generated fromimaging system (550), an operator actuates the gate assembly (not shown)of biopsy device (670) to thereby transfer tissue sample (30) out oftissue sample window (674) and into tissue sample holder (678). In thisinstance, an operator may continue to actuate the cutter of needle (676)within a patient to thereby extract a second tissue sample (30) from apatient and into tissue sample window (674) for examination.

C. Tissue Sample Holder with an Integral Digital Sensor

FIG. 23 shows an exemplary biopsy device (710) and an exemplary imagingsystem (750). Biopsy device (710) includes a needle (711) attached on adistal end and a tissue sample holder (730) attached on a proximal end,respectively. It should be understood that biopsy device (710), needle(711), and tissue sample holder (730) of this example may be configuredand operable just like biopsy device (10), needle (110), and tissuesample holder (300), respectively, described above, except for thedifferences explicitly noted herein. Imaging system (750) includes animaging device (760) and a sensor (752). It should be understood thatimaging system (750), imaging device (760), and sensor (752) of thisexample may be configured and operable just like imaging system (550),imaging device (560), and sensor (552) described above, except for thedifferences explicitly noted herein. Imaging device (760) is a handhelddevice that includes a head (762), an external backscatter shield (764),a handgrip (766) and an actuation feature (768). Imaging device (760) isoperable to communicate with sensor (752) by transmitting x-ray energyor radiation through air until encountering sensor (752). Head (762) isconfigured to transmit energy beams outwardly upon actuation of imagingdevice (760) via actuation feature (768). External backscatter shield(764) is positioned proximate to, and substantially around, head (762)such that head (762) is separated from a remaining portion of imagingdevice (760) by external backscatter shield (764). External backscattershield (764) is operable to protect an operator from radiation exposuretransmitted by head (762) when imaging device (760) is actuated.

As best seen in FIG. 24, tissue sample holder (730) includes multipletissue sample chambers (746) and a single sensor (752) positionedtherein. In particular, sensor (752) is positioned immediately below thetissue sample chamber (746) that is positioned at the top of tissuesample holder (730). Sensor (752) is fixedly secured within tissuesample holder (730) such that sensor (752) maintains the relativeposition within tissue sample holder (730) as tissue sample chambers(746) are rotated within tissue sample holder (730). In this instance,sensor is aligned with and facing one or more tissue samples chambers(746) that are directly above and facing the front face of sensor (752).In this alignment, sensor (752) is ideally positioned to image thetissue sample (30) that is deposited within the tissue sample chamber(746) that is in fluid communication with needle (711). Although sensor(752) in the present example is sized to extend adjacently to one ormore tissue sample chambers (746), it should be understood that sensor(752) may be sized and shaped to extend adjacent to more or fewer tissuesample chambers (746). For instance, sensor (752) may be sized andshaped such that a single tissue sample (30) deposited within anindividual tissue sample chamber (746) is capable of being imaged at atime. Alternatively, sensor (752) may have a greater size and shape suchthat multiple tissue samples (30) contained in multiple tissue samplechambers (746), respectively, may be imaged simultaneously.

Although not shown, it should be understood that tissue sample holder(730) may include multiple sensors (752) positioned below multipletissue sample chambers (746), respectively. In this instance, sensors(752) are fixed to tissue sample chambers (746) such that rotation oftissue sample chambers (746) within tissue sample holder (730) providesfor the simultaneous rotation of sensors (752). Thus, imaging device(760) may be positioned at any angle relative to tissue sample holder(730) depending on the particular tissue sample chamber (746) that anoperator desires to image, rather than being required to direct imagingdevice (760) to the top of tissue sample holder (730) and toward thefront face of sensor (752), which is securely fixed therein.

In the present example, once an operator collects one or a plurality oftissue samples (30) from a patient through biopsy device (710), imagingdevice (760) is selectively positioned directly above tissue sampleholder (730) such that tissue sample chamber (746), containing tissuesample (30), is positioned between sensor (752) and head (762), as seenin FIG. 24. In this instance, an operator activates imaging system (750)via actuation feature (768) to transmit x-ray radiation from imagingdevice (760) towards tissue sample (30) until encountering sensor (752).Tissue sample (30) interacts with the radiation transmitted by head(762) and a corresponding image is generated by imaging system (750) asa result. In the present example, imaging system (750) is operable totransmit x-ray radiation from head (762) to sensor (752) to therebygenerate x-ray images, however, it should be understood that imagingsystem (750) may be operable to generate other images using variousalternative imaging modalities. By way of further example only, imagingsystem (750) may be operable to generate optical coherence tomographyimages, multipicture or videos, high definition ultrasound images, orother images as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the artin view of the teachings herein.

An image of tissue sample (30) is generated by imaging system (750) forthe benefit of an operator's timely review and assessment. Rather thanan operator detaching tissue sample holder (730) from biopsy device(710) to thereby retrieve tissue samples (30) for analysis, an operatorsimply rotates tissue sample chambers (746) to thereby analyze a secondtissue sample (30) contained within tissue sample holder (730). In thepresent example, an operator is not required to initially disassembletissue sample holder (730) from biopsy device (710), to subsequentlyremove tissue sample (30) from tissue sample chamber (746) forsubsequent placement into an examination container (not shown) beforebeing able to generate an image of sample (30). With sensor (752)fixedly secured within tissue sample holder (730), an operator is ableto consistently align head (762) of imaging device (760) to a topportion of tissue sample holder (730) to analyze a subsequent tissuesample (30) after rotating tissue sample chambers (746) within tissuesample holder (730) such that a different tissue sample (30) is locatedbetween head (762) and sensor (752).

In this instance, an operator may extract a single tissue sample (30)from a patient and deposit the sample (30) into tissue sample chamber(746) for immediate examination by imaging device (760). Once an imageof tissue sample (30) is generated, an operator may rotate tissue sampleholder (730) such that an empty tissue sample chamber (746) becomesaligned with needle (711). In this instance, an operator may extract asubsequent tissue sample (30) from a patient and deposit the sample (30)into the empty tissue sample chamber (746) for subsequent examination.This method may be repeated for each tissue sample (30) extracted from apatient. Alternatively, an operator may initially extract multipletissue samples (30) and deposit them into tissue sample chambers (746),respectively, prior to utilizing imaging device (760). In this instance,with each tissue sample chamber (746) containing an individual tissuesample (30) therein, an operator may individually image each tissuesample (30) with imaging device (460) by rotating tissue sample holder(730) to the next tissue sample chamber (746) once an image of thecurrent tissue sample chamber (746) has been taken.

D. Imaging Device with Tissue Sample Support Arm

FIG. 25 shows an exemplary imaging system (850) including an imagingdevice (860), an extension arm (854), and a support member (856). Exceptas otherwise described below, imaging system (850) and imaging device(860) may be configured and operable just like imaging system (550) andimaging device (760), respectively, described above. Imaging device(860) is a handheld device that includes a head (862), an externalbackscatter shield (864), a handgrip (866) and an actuation feature(868). Head (862) is configured to transmit energy or radiationoutwardly upon actuation of imaging device (860) via actuation feature(868). Similar to imaging device (760), external backscatter shield(864) of imaging device (860) is positioned adjacent to, andsubstantially around head (862) such that head (862) is separated from aremaining portion of imaging device (860) by external backscatter shield(864).

External backscatter shield (864) is operable to protect an operatorfrom radiation exposure transmitted by head (862) when imaging device(860) is actuated. Extension arm (854) is attached to externalbackscatter shield (864) on a proximal end, and to support member (856)on a distal end, respectively. Extension arm (854) positions supportmember (856) distally from head (852) such that extension arm (854) isconfigured to maintain support member (856) along the direct line ofsight of imaging device (860). Extension arm (854) is configured to beadjustable from an extended position, as shown in FIG. 25, to aretracted position as shown in FIG. 26. With extension arm (854) in theextended position, imaging device (860) is operable to receive tissuesample holder (300) between head (862) and support member (856). In thisinstance, with tissue sample holder (300) positioned therein, extensionarm (854) is operable to retract support member (856) towards head (862)to thereby securely clamp tissue sample holder (300) to imaging device(860).

Support member (856) is in the form of a back plate that includes asensor (852) integrally positioned therein. It should be understood thatsensor (852) of this example may be configured and operable just likesensor (552) described above, except for the differences explicitlynoted herein. Sensor (852) is centrally positioned on support member(856) and is sized and shaped to associate with the size and shape oftissue sample holder (300) such that any tissue samples (30) containedwithin tissue sample holder (300) are fully contained within theperimeter dimension of sensor (852). Although not shown, it should beunderstood that sensor (852) may be sized to an extent greater thantissue sample holder (300). Imaging device (860) is operable tocommunicate with sensor (852) by transmitting radiation through airuntil encountering sensor (852).

It should be understood that with tissue sample holder (300) positionedbetween sensor (852) and imaging device (860) in its entirety, imagingsystem (850) is operable to take an image of any tissue samples (30)contained within tissue sample holder (300). In other words, tissuesample holder (300) may contain one or more tissue samples (30) thereinfor imaging by imaging system (850). For instance, tissue sample holder(300) may include a single tissue sample (30), multiple tissue samples(30), or may be completely filled with numerous tissue samples (30) inevery tissue sample chamber of tissue sample holder (300). Thus, imagingsystem (850) is operable to accurately image multiple tissue samples(30) contained within tissue sample holder (300) as the entire tissuesample holder (300) is positioned between sensor (852) and imagingdevice (860).

In the present example, after an operator collects a tissue sample (30)from a patient and the tissue sample (30) is deposited within tissuesample holder (300), tissue sample holder (300) is detached from biopsydevice (10) and subsequently positioned within imaging device (860).Alternatively, although not shown, it should be understood that imagingsystem (850) may be used with tissue sample holder (300) still attachedto biopsy device (10). In this instance, with tissue sample holder (300)attached to the proximal end of biopsy device (10), imaging device (860)engages the proximal end of biopsy device (10) at location of tissuesample holder (300). In either instance, tissue sample holder (300) isselectively positioned between support member (856) and head (852). Withtissue sample holder (300) positioned therebetween, extension arm (864)is manipulated to thereby transition extension arm (864) from theextended position (see FIG. 25) to the retracted position (see FIG. 26).In this instance, tissue sample holder (300) is securely grasped ontoimaging device (860) such that tissue sample (30) is positioned betweensensor (852) and head (862), as seen in FIG. 26. An operator activatesimaging system (850) via actuation feature (868) to transmit x-rayradiation from imaging device (860) towards tissue sample (30) untilencountering sensor (852). Tissue sample (30) and sensor (852) interactwith radiation transmitted by head (862) and a corresponding image isgenerated by imaging system (850) as a result.

Imaging system (850) is operable to transmit x-ray beams from head (862)to sensor (852) to thereby generate x-ray images. Alternatively, itshould be understood that imaging system (850) may be operable togenerate other images via various alternative imaging modalities. By wayof further example only, imaging system (850) can be configured togenerate optical coherence tomography, multipicture or videos, highdefinition ultrasound images, or other images as will be apparent tothose of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Withan image of tissue sample (30) generated by imaging system (850), anoperator can review and assess the characteristics of tissue sample (30)without needing to individually remove tissue samples (30) from tissuesample holder (300) for subsequent placement into an examinationcontainer for imaging.

To examine a subsequent tissue sample (30), an operator adjustsextension arm (854) to the extended position to thereby release tissuesample holder (300) from the secured engagement with imaging system(850). An operator then removes the initial tissue sample (30) fromtissue sample holder (300) and subsequently reattaches tissue sampleholder (300) to biopsy device (10). In this instance, a second tissuesample (30) is extracted from the patient and deposited into tissuesample holder (300). With a new tissue sample (30) contained withintissue sample holder (300), an operator detaches tissue sample holder(300) from biopsy device (10) and selectively positions tissue sampleholder (300) between head (862) and support member (856). Thus, anoperator is not required to individually remove each tissue sample (30)from tissue sample holder (300) and subsequently place the sample (30)into an examination container (not shown) to generate an image of sample(30). Rather, imaging system (850) provides for the immediate imaging oftissue samples (30) contained within tissue sample holder (300).

In some instances, multiple tissue samples (30) are extracted anddeposited into tissue sample holder (300) prior to imaging samples (30)with imaging device (860) such that an operator is able to examine everysample (30) contained within tissue sample (300) at once. Thus, anoperator is not required to individually remove each tissue sample (30)from tissue sample holder (300) and reattach tissue sample holder (300)to biopsy device (10) to extract a subsequent specimen from the patient.Rather, an operator may initially extract multiple tissue samples (30)prior to utilizing imaging device (860). Once multiple tissue samples(30) are deposited within tissue sample holder (300), imaging device(860) may be used to image multiple tissue samples by rotating tissuesample holder (300) relative to imaging device (860) to successivelyalign a tissue sample (30) with imaging device (860) for imaging.

FIG. 27 shows an exemplary alternative imaging system (950) including animaging device (960), an extension arm (954), and a support member(956). Except as otherwise described below, imaging system (950) andimaging device (960) may be configured and operable just like imagingsystem (550) and imaging device (760), respectively, described above.Imaging device (960) is a handheld device that includes a head (962), anexternal backscatter shield (964), a handgrip (966) and an actuationfeature (968). Head (962) is configured to transmit energy or radiationoutwardly upon actuation of imaging device (960) via actuation feature(968). Similar to imaging device (760, 860), external backscatter shield(964) of imaging device (960) is positioned adjacent to, andsubstantially around head (962) such that head (962) is separated from aremaining portion of imaging device (960) by external backscatter shield(964). As described above, external backscatter shield (964) is operableto protect an operator from radiation exposure transmitted by head (962)when imaging device (960) is actuated.

Extension arm (954) is attached to imaging device (960) on a proximalend, and to support member (956) on a distal end, respectively.Extension arm (954) positions support member (956) distally from head(962) such that extension arm (954) is configured to maintain supportmember (956) along the direct line of sight of imaging device (960).Support member (956) is a revolving spindle that is sized and shaped tofit into tissue sample holder (300). In other words, support member(956) is configured to be received within tissue sample holder (300)such that tissue sample holder (300) is attachable to imaging device(960) by slidably engaging support member (956), as best seen in FIG.29. Support member (956) includes a digital sensor (952) integrallypositioned therein. It should be understood that digital sensor (952) ofthis example may be configured and operable just like sensor (552)described above, except for the differences explicitly noted herein.Sensor (952) is contained within support member (956) and is sized andshaped be substantially equal to, or greater than, tissue sample chamber(346) of tissue sample holder (300) such that the size of tissue sample(30) contained within tissue sample chamber (346) will not exceed beyondthe dimensions of digital sensor (952) to thereby ensure a completeimage of tissue sample (30) is attainable. Imaging device (960) isoperable to communicate with digital sensor (952) by transmitting aradiation through air until encountering sensor (952).

In the present example, an operator collects tissue sample (30) from apatient with biopsy device (10) and tissue sample (30) is depositedwithin tissue sample holder (300). An operator then detaches tissuesample holder (300) from biopsy device (10) and subsequently attachestissue sample holder (300) to imaging device (960). Particularly, asseen in FIG. 28, tissue sample holder (300) is slidably inserted ontosupport member (956). With tissue sample holder (300) engaged ontosupport member (956), tissue sample holder (300) is securely fastenedonto imaging device (960) and positioned distally relative to head(962). An operator activates imaging system (950) via actuation feature(968) to transmit x-ray radiation from imaging device (960) towardstissue sample (30) until encountering digital sensor (952). Tissuesample (30) and sensor (952) interact with radiation transmitted by head(962) and a corresponding image is generated by imaging system (950) asa result.

In some instances, multiple tissue samples (30) are extracted anddeposited into tissue sample holder (300) prior to imaging samples (30)with imaging device (960) such that an operator is able to examine everysample (30) contained within tissue sample holder (300) in a singleimaging sequence. Thus, an operator is not required to individuallyremove each tissue sample (30) from tissue sample holder (300) andreattach tissue sample holder (300) to biopsy device (10) to extract asubsequent specimen from the patient. Rather, an operator may initiallyextract multiple tissue samples (30) prior to utilizing imaging device(960). In this instance, an operator rotates tissue sample holder (300)about support member (956) to realign tissue sample chambers (346) suchthat a different tissue sample chamber (346) is positioned in the directline of sight with head (962) of imaging device (960).

Similar to imaging system (850) described above, imaging system (950) isoperable to transmit x-ray radiation from head (962) to sensor (952) tothereby generate x-ray images. Alternatively, it should be understoodthat imaging system (950) may be operable to generate other images viavarious alternative imaging modalities. By way of example only, suitableimaging modalities may include optical coherence tomography,multipicture or videos, high definition ultrasound, or other imagingmodalities as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art inview of the teachings herein. With an image of tissue sample (30)generated by imaging system (950), an operator is able to review andassess the characteristics of tissue sample (30) without needing toindividually remove tissue samples (30) from tissue sample holder (300)for subsequent placement into an examination container for imaging.

As discussed above, to examine a subsequent tissue sample (30), anoperator rotates tissue sample holder (300) about support member (956)until an alternate tissue sample chamber (346) is positioned betweenhead (962) and digital sensor (952). An operator then actuates imagingdevice (960) to thereby take an image of a different tissue sample (30)contained within the alternate tissue sample chamber (346).Alternatively, imaging system (950) may be utilized with tissue sampleholder (300) still attached to biopsy device (10). Although not shown,it should be understood that in the present example support member (956)is received within tissue sample holder (300) at the proximal endopposite of the distal end that is attached to biopsy device (10). Inthis instance, tissue sample chambers (346) are rotated relative tobiopsy device (10) such that each tissue sample (30) contained in tissuesample holder (300) is imaged by imaging device (960). In otherinstances, imaging device (960) is rotated about tissue sample holder(300) to thereby image each tissue sample chamber (346) that contains atissue sample (30).

V. EXEMPLARY COMBINATIONS

The following examples relate to various non-exhaustive ways in whichthe teachings herein may be combined or applied. It should be understoodthat the following examples are not intended to restrict the coverage ofany claims that may be presented at any time in this application or insubsequent filings of this application. No disclaimer is intended. Thefollowing examples are being provided for nothing more than merelyillustrative purposes. It is contemplated that the various teachingsherein may be arranged and applied in numerous other ways. It is alsocontemplated that some variations may omit certain features referred toin the below examples. Therefore, none of the aspects or featuresreferred to below should be deemed critical unless otherwise explicitlyindicated as such at a later date by the inventors or by a successor ininterest to the inventors. If any claims are presented in thisapplication or in subsequent filings related to this application thatinclude additional features beyond those referred to below, thoseadditional features shall not be presumed to have been added for anyreason relating to patentability.

Example 1

A biopsy device, comprising: (a) a body; (b) a needle extending from thebody; (c) a tissue sample holder, wherein the needle is in communicationwith the tissue sample holder, wherein the tissue sample holder includesa receiving cavity; and (d) a sensor, wherein the sensor is operable todigitally convert and transmit data, wherein the receiving cavity issized and shaped to slidably receive the sensor such that the sensor isremovably positioned within the tissue sample holder.

Example 2

The biopsy device of Example 1, wherein the tissue sample holderincludes multiple tissue sample chambers configured to receive and holdtissue samples.

Example 3

The biopsy device of Example 1, wherein the tissue sample holder isconfigured to rotate relative to the body.

Example 4

The biopsy device of any one or more of Examples 1 through 3, furthercomprising an imaging device.

Example 5

The biopsy device of Example 4, wherein the imaging device is configuredto transmit energy beams.

Example 6

The biopsy device of any one or more of Examples 2 through 5, whereinthe imaging device is operable to transmit energy beams towards thetissue samples contained within the tissue sample chambers and towardthe sensor.

Example 7

The biopsy device of any one or more of Examples 4 through 6, whereinthe imaging device and the sensor are configured to cooperate togenerate x-ray images.

Example 8

The biopsy device of any one or more of Examples 1 through 7, whereinthe sensor includes an electronic circuit, an imager, a fiber opticplate and a scintillator.

Example 9

A biopsy device, comprising: (a) a body; (b) a needle extending from thebody; (c) a tissue sample holder, wherein the tissue sample isconfigured to store tissue samples therein, and (d) at least one sensor;wherein the sensor is positioned within the tissue sample holderadjacent to the stored tissue samples, wherein the at least one sensoris operable to receive energy or radiation from an imaging device,wherein the at least one sensor is configured to digitally transmit datain response to the energy or radiation from the imaging device.

Example 10

The biopsy device of Example 9, wherein the at least one sensor issecurely fixed relative to the body such that the at least one sensormaintains a static orientation during rotation of the tissue sampleholder relative to the body.

Example 11

The biopsy device of Example 9, wherein the tissue sample holderincludes multiple tissue sample chambers.

Example 12

The biopsy device of Example 11, wherein the tissue sample holderincludes a sensor for each tissue sample chamber.

Example 13

The biopsy device of any one or more of Examples 11 through 12, whereinthe sensors are securely fixed relative to the tissue sample holder suchthat the sensors rotate during rotation of the tissue sample holderrelative to the body.

Example 14

The biopsy device of Example 13, wherein the sensor is sized and shapedto be substantially equal to a dimension of the tissue sample chamber.

Example 15

A biopsy device, comprising: (a) a body, wherein the body includes adigital sensor; (b) a needle extending from the body; (c) a tissuesample holder; and (d) a tissue sample window, wherein the tissue samplewindow is in communication with the needle, wherein the tissue samplewindow is proximate relative to the needle and distal relative to thetissue sample holder, wherein the tissue sample window includes a gateassembly configured to selectively arrest movement of a tissue sample,wherein the digital sensor is adjacent to the tissue sample window.

Example 16

The biopsy device of Example 15, wherein the tissue sample window is ona distal portion of the body.

Example 17

The biopsy device of Example 15, wherein the tissue sample window is ona proximal portion of the body.

Example 18

The biopsy device of Example 15 through Example 17, wherein the sensoris sized and shaped to be substantially equal to a dimension of thetissue sample window.

Example 19

An imaging biopsy assembly, comprising: (a) a biopsy device, wherein thebiopsy device includes a body, a needle and a tissue sample holder; (b)an imaging device, wherein at least a portion of the biopsy device isconfigured to associate with the imaging device, wherein the at least aportion of the biopsy device is configured to maintain a tissue sampletherein such that progression of the tissue sample is ceased in the atleast a portion of the biopsy device, wherein the imaging deviceincludes a beam transmitter and a sensor, wherein the beam transmitteris operable to transmit energy beams towards the sensor, wherein thesensor is operable to receive the beams, convert the received beams intodata, and transmit the data.

Example 20

The imaging biopsy assembly of Example 19, wherein the imaging deviceincludes a boom-mounted x-ray source.

Example 21

The imaging biopsy assembly of Example 19, wherein the imaging deviceincludes a handheld x-ray source.

Example 22

The imaging biopsy assembly of Example 19 through Example 21, whereinthe sensor is integral with the biopsy device.

Example 23

The imaging biopsy assembly of Example 19 through Example 21, whereinthe sensor is removably separate from the biopsy device.

Example 24

A method of taking an image of a biopsied tissue sample from a biopsydevice, the method comprising the steps of: (a) inserting a needle intoa patient to severe and extract a tissue sample; (b) storing the tissuesample in a tissue sample holder; (c) inserting a digital sensor intothe tissue sample holder such that the digital sensor is positionedadjacent to the tissue sample; (d) positioning an imaging deviceadjacent to the tissue sample holder such that a beam-transmitter of theimaging device is aligned towards the tissue sample and the digitalsensor; and (e) activating the imaging device to transmit energy towardsthe tissue sample and digital sensor.

Example 25

The method of Example 24, further comprising generating an image of thetissue sample.

Example 26

The method of Example 25, further comprising displaying a graphicalrepresentation or depiction of the tissue sample.

Example 27

The method of Example 24, the method further comprising rotating thetissue sample holder to align a different tissue sample adjacent to thebeam-transmitter.

Example 28

An imaging device, comprising: (a) a body, wherein the body includes abackscatter shield; (b) a beam-transmitter, wherein the beam-transmitteris operable to transmit high-energy beams; (c) an extension arm, whereinthe extension arm includes a proximal end and a distal end, wherein thebody and the beam-transmitter are positioned at the proximal end of theextension arm; and (d) a support member, wherein the support member ispositioned at the distal end of the extension arm, wherein the supportmember includes a digital sensor, wherein the support member isconfigured to removably couple to at least a portion of a biopsy devicesuch that the digital sensor is adjacent to at least the portion of thebiopsy device.

Example 29

The imaging device of Example 28, wherein the extension arm isconfigured to be adjustable between an extended position and a retractedposition.

Example 30

The imaging device of Example 29, wherein the support member is distallyoriented relative to the body when the extension arm is in the extendedposition, wherein the support member is proximally oriented relative tothe body when the extension arm is in the retracted position.

Example 31

The imaging device of any one or more of Examples 29 through 30, whereinat least the portion of the biopsy device is a tissue sample holder,wherein the tissue sample holder is securely engaged by the imagingdevice when the extension arm is in the retracted position.

Example 32

The imaging device of Example 28, wherein the backscatter shield isoperable to block high-energy beams from being transmitted proximallyfrom beam-transmitter.

Example 33

The imaging device of any one or more of Examples 30 through 31, whereinthe support member is a back plate.

Example 34

The imaging device of Example 28, wherein the support member is aspindle rod.

Example 35

The imaging device of Example 34, wherein at least the portion of thebiopsy device is a tissue sample holder, wherein the support member issized and shaped to be inserted into the tissue sample holder such thatthe tissue sample holder is slidably received by the support member.

Example 36

The imaging device of Example 35, wherein the support member isconfigured to rotate the tissue sample holder about the support member.

Example 37

A biopsy device, comprising: (a) a body; (b) a needle extending from thebody; (c) a tissue sample holder in communication with the needle toreceive one or more tissue samples within a sample chamber defined bythe tissue sample holder, wherein the tissue sample holder includes areceiving cavity; and (d) a sensor configured to detect x-rays, whereinthe receiving cavity is sized and shaped to receive the sensor such thatthe sensor is removably positioned within the tissue sample holder.

Example 38

The biopsy device of Example 37, wherein the tissue sample holderincludes a plurality of sample chambers configured to receive and holdtissue samples.

Example 39

The biopsy device of Example 37, wherein the tissue sample holder isconfigured to rotate relative to the body.

Example 40

The biopsy device of Example 37, wherein the tissue sample holderincludes a plurality of sample chambers arranged around the receivingcavity, wherein the tissue sample holder is configured to rotate toorient the sensor relative to the plurality of sample chambers.

Example 41

The biopsy device of Example 37, further comprising an imaging device,wherein the imaging device is configured to transmit x-rays.

Example 42

The biopsy device of Example 37, further comprising an imaging device,wherein the imaging device is operable to transmit x-rays towards thetissue samples contained within the tissue sample chambers and towardthe sensor.

Example 43

The biopsy device of Example 37, further comprising an imaging device,wherein the imaging device and the sensor are configured to cooperate togenerate x-ray images.

Example 44

The biopsy device of Example 37, further comprising an imaging device,wherein the tissue sample holder includes a plurality of sample chambersoriented around the receiving cavity, wherein the imaging device and thesensor are configured to cooperate to generate x-ray image of eachsample chamber of the plurality of sample chambers separately.

Example 45

The biopsy device of Example 37, further comprising an imaging device,wherein the tissue sample holder includes a plurality of sample chambersoriented around the receiving cavity, wherein the imaging device and thesensor are configured to cooperate to generate x-ray image of two ormore sample chambers of the plurality of sample chambers in a singleimage.

Example 46

The biopsy device of any one or more of Examples 37 through 45, whereinthe sensor includes an electronic circuit, an imager, a fiber opticplate and a scintillator.

VI. CONCLUSION

It should be appreciated that any patent, publication, or otherdisclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to beincorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to theextent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existingdefinitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in thisdisclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure asexplicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting materialincorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, thatis said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts withexisting definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forthherein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arisesbetween that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

Having shown and described various embodiments of the present invention,further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein may beaccomplished by appropriate modifications by one of ordinary skill inthe art without departing from the scope of the present invention.Several of such potential modifications have been mentioned, and otherswill be apparent to those skilled in the art. For instance, theexamples, embodiments, geometries, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps,and the like discussed above are illustrative and are not required.Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be considered interms of the following claims and is understood not to be limited to thedetails of structure and operation shown and described in thespecification and drawings.

We claim:
 1. A biopsy device comprising: (a) a body; (b) a needleextending distally from the body; (c) a tissue sample holder including aplurality of tissue chambers configured to store tissue samples therein,the tissue sample holder including a receiving cavity, the receivingcavity being proximate one or more tissue chambers of the plurality oftissue chambers, the plurality of tissue chambers being arranged aroundthe receiving cavity such that the receiving cavity is defined by aspace disposed between the plurality of tissue chambers; and (d) atleast one sensor removably received within the receiving cavity of thetissue sample holder adjacent to at least one tissue chamber of theplurality of tissue chambers, the at least one sensor being operable toreceive radiation from an imaging device transmitted through a tissuesample disposed within any one or more of the tissue chambers to imagethe tissue sample with the at least one sensor, the at least one sensorbeing configured to digitally transmit data in response to the radiationfrom the imaging device.
 2. The biopsy device of claim 1, the at leastone sensor being configured to securely couple relative to the body suchthat the at least one sensor maintains a static orientation duringrotation of the tissue sample holder relative to the body.
 3. The biopsydevice of claim 1, the at least one sensor including a plurality ofsensors with each sensor corresponding to each tissue chamber of theplurality of tissue chambers.
 4. The biopsy device of claim 1, thetissue sample holder including a rotatable member defining the pluralityof tissue chambers, the rotatable member being configured to rotate theplurality of chambers relative to the body, the at least one sensorbeing configured to couple to the tissue sample holder such that the atleast one sensor remains in a single position as the rotatable memberrotates relative to the body.
 5. The biopsy device of claim 1, thetissue sample holder including a rotatable member defining the pluralityof tissue chambers, the rotatable member being configured to rotate theplurality of chambers relative to the body, the at least one sensorbeing configured to maintain a static orientation during rotation of therotatable member relative to the body.
 6. The biopsy device of claim 1,the tissue sample holder including a rotatable member defining theplurality of tissue chambers, the receiving cavity of the tissue sampleholder being centrally positioned relative to the plurality of tissuechambers.
 7. The biopsy device of claim 1, the tissue sample holderincluding a rotatable member defining the plurality of tissue chambers,the receiving cavity of the tissue sample holder being centrallypositioned relative to the plurality of tissue chambers, the receivingcavity being configured to slidably receive the at least one sensor withthe at least one sensor oriented upwardly toward a tissue chamberaligned with the needle.
 8. The biopsy device of claim 7, the at leastone sensor being configured to form an x-ray image of a single tissuechamber of the plurality of tissue chambers at one time.
 9. The biopsydevice of claim 1, the at least one sensor being configured to receivex-ray radiation through the tissue sample holder from an externalimaging device.
 10. The biopsy device of claim 1, the plurality oftissue chambers being arranged in a circular pattern around thereceiving cavity.